Perfect ocean cruises for first-timers

21 February 2017

Thinking of taking your first cruise on the high seas? We set out the best types and trips for anyone new to ocean cruises

By Chloe Cann

At Mail Travel we’re firm believers that it’s hard to go wrong on a cruise. And the numbers don’t lie – more than 20 million passengers set sail on a floating holiday each year. If you’re a first-timer thinking of joining the cruise brigade then it can be daunting knowing where to start – where to sail, for how long, what time of year? Well fear not. We have a huge range of cruise itineraries so we thought we’d highlight some of the best types for readers looking to find their sea legs. With ships of all sizes and different cruise lines providing different experiences, you’ll find one to suit you. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or with family, here’s our guide to the best ocean cruise ideas for first-timers.

The mini cruise

Two- to four-day mini cruises are becoming much more common, and allow guests the perfect opportunity to sample life at sea. These sailings are almost always ex-UK, taking in the sweeping British coastline, so you don’t have to fly before setting off. Plus with prices starting at around £59 per person they offer incredibly good value for money, meaning there’s minimal commitment of either time or capital. Just head to your local port – whether that’s Newcastle, Greenock or Tilbury – and let the cruise line take care of you from there on in. And aside from exploring the ship, mingling with other passengers and indulging in the usual array of dining options, many cruise lines also offer a taster of their on-board entertainment programs to boot.

The themed cruise

From themed voyages to a destination focus, choosing the right cruise can be as simple as aligning your own interests with the right short sailing. Whether you love to make an annual pilgrimage to the continent’s many Christmas markets, have always wanted to explore the flora and fauna of the Faroe Islands or like the idea of an all-inclusive drinks cruise there are endless options out there. And best of all, the passengers you meet on board should prove to be like-minded, meaning plenty of new friends. Or if you’d rather, just sit back, relax and watch the scenery go by from the comfort of your own cabin.

The short European itinerary

One of the many boons of cruise travel is that within a short period of time you can hop from one European city or site of interest to another, all without having to pack and unpack your suitcase or deal with any logistics. So a short European cruise might just be the best of both worlds. For example, in just eight days you can try five different destinations in Greece and Albania on a luxury Mediterranean cruise. Or hop over the channel and take in the French and Belgian coasts in just six days.

Published by Mail Travel, a division of Associated Newspapers Limited, a company registered in England under company number 84121 with a registered office at Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT

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